I always had major PMS issues (heavy bleeder, mucho "I think I am dying" kind of pain and crazy mood swings). I am 44 now and have been in the peri-stage for a little over three years. The worst symptoms are the extreme anger I can feel and the horrid night sweats. I also did not appreciate that my periods started coming more frequently. A few months ago, I entered year three of the low hormone (birth control) pills my female OB/GYN put me on. I like not having periods and it helps my feelings of anger tremendously. I still have night sweats though - temp outside can be well below zero, temp in the house is 66 and I am kicking off the covers.

As this is year 3 of the pills, and based on the new study that came out, I would like to quit the pills or at least taper off after this year. In any event, my dr. has indicated she would not put me on them for more than 5 years. Assuming I might still be suffering the symptoms then, I hope to find a more natural way stop the sweats and not get so darned angry. Hard exercise has always helped and I do yoga, but my body needs more than this.